FAR Manager

If you are tired of drag-and-drop file manipulation in the Windows’ GUI, then FAR Manager, with its command line and DOS-like interface for file creation and editing is for you. The program downloads easily and is free to use.

As a text-based application, FAR Manager allows the user to manipulate files by renaming them, moving them from directory to directory, and opening them in another window. You can also delete files, create new files, or edit certain files by clicking on them. Most users won’t find the interface intuitive, but that is to be expected. If you are used to working in command line, then the interface is quite straightforward and intuitive. Otherwise you are left wondering how to reach the documentation for this program. A FAQ exists, but it is only written in Russian. Otherwise the Web site points you to the forums so that other users can answer your questions. FAR Manager does not make use of Windows Explorer so that you can use the GUI in any way. The best use for this program, in an age of easy GUI file manipulation, is at that moment when Windows is not responsive and you must work from the command line. In this case, this application will give you easy access to your files when you may not be able to reach them in any other way. For this reason, it may be a good idea to have this program on hand for Windows emergencies.

FAR Manager is not for the beginner. It is geared toward those familiar with the old command line way of working with a computer–a nostalgic trip back to the early 90s. With that said, the advanced user can figure out the ins and outs of this program with a little guidance, and it could save the day if files are otherwise inaccessible.